Avionics Test Engineer, Hardware

Apex Technology, Inc.•Los Angeles, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. About the Role We’re looking for a Hardware Avionics Test Engineer to join our growing Test team. In this role, you’ll focus on hardware integration and testing, system-level and component-level test rack planning and buildup, avionics validation, and automated spacecraft test execution. You’ll work closely with electrical, mechanical, RF, and systems engineers to build and operate integrated spacecraft test environments, execute qualification campaigns, and troubleshoot flight hardware throughout development and integration. This role is highly hands-on and ideal for engineers who enjoy working directly with hardware, integration setups, and environmental testing.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or related field
3+ years of professional experience in aerospace hardware or electronics testing
Hands-on experience with laboratory instrumentation and hardware bring-up
Familiarity with avionics hardware and embedded communication protocols: UART, SPI, CAN, I2C
Experience troubleshooting integrated electrical systems and test setups
Strong understanding of hardware integration and validation workflows
Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder) in accordance with ITAR requirements

Nice To Haves

Experience integrating or testing spacecraft, launch vehicles, or flight electronics
Familiarity with RF communications systems and RF lab equipment
Experience with: Harnessing, Fixturing, Environmental testing, Vibration testing
Familiarity with coaxial cable selection and RF interconnect characterization
Exposure to fast-paced aerospace production or integration environments
Experience designing PCBs or supporting hardware prototyping
Background conducting sensor functional tests, leak checks, or avionics channelization
Basic Python or scripting experience for test support and automation

Responsibilities

Develop and execute test procedures for spacecraft avionics subsystems and RF hardware
Build, configure, and maintain: Flatsats, Communications racks, Component-level and system-level test setups
Support hardware integration activities including: Harnessing, Fixturing, Rack integration, Mechanical/electrical interface validation
Operate laboratory instrumentation including: Oscilloscopes, Multimeters, Power supplies, DAQ systems, VNAs, Vector signal analyzers/generators
Execute RF and avionics validation testing for: Antennas, Radios and transceivers, GNSS systems, LNAs and PAs, RF switches, Couplers and power dividers
Perform: Near-field antenna testing, Cable loss characterization, S-parameter measurements, Insertion loss analysis
Support environmental and qualification campaigns including: EMI/EMC, Vibration, Thermal cycling, TVAC
Support RF testing in thermal vacuum environments, including understanding of corona and multipactor considerations
Troubleshoot flight hardware and flatsat hardware failures during integration and test
Execute and document: Functional checkouts, Acceptance testing, Environmental screening, Integrated system validation
Author and maintain Design Verification Plans (DVPs), procedures, and test documentation
Collaborate with cross-functional teams on design-for-test initiatives and spacecraft integration campaigns

Benefits

Receive equity in Apex
100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents
$100k life insurance at no cost
15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually
10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave
Childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch
Unlimited snacks
Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life